OWERRI, Nigeria – Hope Uzodinma, the governor of Imo State, has unveiled Lady Chinyere Ekomaru as his running mate, sidelining the current Deputy Governor, Prof. Placid Njoku.
During a special stakeholders ‘ meeting, the announcement was made on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at the Landmark Event Centre in New Owerri.
Uzodimma clarified that the decision doesn’t stem from any issues with Njoku but results from “ecumenical and political permutations.”
Highlighting his administration’s achievements since taking office on January 15, 2020, Governor Uzodimma spoke passionately about the strides of his 3-R government, which focuses on reconstruction, rehabilitation, and recovery.
He expressed confidence in their robust foundation across various economic sectors and voiced his commitment to further growth in the coming years.
Governor Uzodimma warmly welcomed stakeholders, emphasizing the significance of introducing Lady Ekomaru as the new deputy governorship candidate.
He noted, “I am excited to present Lady Chinyere Ekomaru in our journey towards building a safer, more functional, and prosperous Imo State.”
Further iterating his administration’s achievements, Uzodinma said, “Our accomplishments loudly vouch for our commitment and dedication. Our record speaks for itself as another election is on the horizon.”
He expressed his faith in Lady Ekomaru’s capabilities and added, “I am convinced she will bring immense value to our campaign. I trust that the women of Imo will recognize this move as a testament to their inherent strength and their significant role in our state’s growth.”
The Governor didn’t shy away from addressing the elephant in the room — the sidelining of Prof. Placid Njoku.
Showering praises on his deputy, Uzodinma stated, “Prof. Njoku remains a loyal and dedicated ally in our progress journey. I want to state that my faith in him hasn’t diminished categorically. He will always play a pivotal role in our political family. This decision was born out of our obligation to be attuned to the diverse nature of our constituents.”
This strategic shift in the state’s leadership dynamics will likely create ripples in the political circles and among the electorate as the state inches closer to the 2023 governorship elections.
